The C257 Mercedes-Benz CLS is the third generation of the CLS range of four-door sedan, and was launched in 2018 as the successor to the Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218).^[7] It is only available as a sedan, with no plans to introduce a Shooting Brake variant in the near future.^[8][9] It is based heavily on the E-Class (W213).^[10]

Information on the C257 CLS was released online on 29 November 2017,^[11] with a public unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2018.^[12]

The new CLS uses a four-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension and comes in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (4MATIC) configurations.^[13] CLS 53 4MATIC+ models utilise variable all-wheel drive, allowing for torque distribution between the front and rear axles.^[14] An electric motor is used to boost power output by 16 kW (21 hp) and 249 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft),^[15] and also powers the on-board 48-volt system.^[16]

The CLS is also now a five-seater car, instead of being a four-seater as with the previous two generations.^[17]

• Rear view of a CLS 450 4Matic
• Interior of a CLS 350d 4Matic
• Mercedes-AMG CLS 53
• Mercedes-AMG CLS 53

Standard equipment includes LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, ambient lighting, as well as lane keeping and speed limit assistance systems.^[18] CLS models also feature 'Mercedes me' online services with a built-in LTE module in the car, enabling concierge services and remote control of the car.^[19] Optional equipment includes air suspension and a widescreen cockpit consisting of two 12.3-inch displays on the dashboard.^[20] An AMG line is also available and includes AMG body styling, a diamond pattern radiator grille, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel.^[21]